Although the theorists we studied showed great differences, there were also some underlying similarities :

1. The importance of early childhood development, and especially the ability to establish healthy relationships with both parents.

Freud, Jung, Adler, Rogers, Horney, & Maslow all believed childhood experience was a fundamental determiner of adult personality.

Rogers call for "unconditional positive regard" (unconditional love) drives this point home nicely.

In order to develop the capacity for love and empathy, we must be shown love and empathy early on.

Important General Agreements among personality theorists

2. The fundamental importance of society in shaping personality.

Adler, Jung, and Horney were among the first to point out the fundamental importance of society in the creation and maintenance of psychological health (or unhealth).

Just as war can lead to an increased acceptance of violence, extended periods of peace can lead to an increased acceptance of cooperation and prosocial behavior.

3. The ability of the human to alter aspects of their personality.

Although none of the theorists state that this is an easy goal, most theorists we examined (Freud being the most pessimistic exception) believed that humans have a tendency towards psychological growth and mental health which can be encouraged.

4. The understanding that multiple viewpoints (or subjective perceptions) exist, and we must understand the individuals perception in order to assist them.

This point is shown most strongly in the therapy of Rogers, Horney, Maslow and Adler. They treated the individual as a whole, and wanted to learn what the client thought about their own environment rather than rigidly classifying people with respect to prior clinical experience.

5. Finally, most theorists we examined (Freud is again the exception) have a positive outlook toward human behavior and the capacity for a psychologically healthy human evolutionary process. These theorists are upbeat and positive about life and seem to have genuine empathy and liking for their fellow humankind.

1. When is personality fixed ? Adler argued basic personality was fixed at age five, and Jung thought that the thirties and forties were an important time of intense personality development.

2. What is the goal of the personality theorist ? Cattell was in the traditional "understand and control" camp of psychology, while Carl Rogers argued it is pathological to try to control other peoples behavior.

3. What is the role of the client during treatment ? Here, we have seen somewhat of an evolution in treatment philosophy.

Early theorists such as Jung and Freud were very directive in their therapy, and controlled much of the interpretations of thoughts and behaviors. More recently, theorists have tried to make the client a full partner in the research, even to the point of having the client suggest solutions.

What are the broader points which you should take home from this class ?

1. Trust in your own experience ---- You know more about your own life than anybody else.
2. Be aware of how culture influences people's dispositions towards competitive and cooperative behavior. Although you should take responsibility for your own behavior, you don't have to take responsibility for other people's behavior.

3. You can build your own theory of personality based upon the combination of your own experience and what you have learned from these personality theorists. The science is constantly evolving, so you should remain flexible in your theorizing and be willing to allow future information to change your theory --- Develop a dynamic theory of personality rather than a static, unchanging theory.

3. Realize the vast commonalties in the human experience :

People would rather be happy than sad.

People would rather live a fulfilling life than an empty life.

People want the acceptance and enjoyment of other people's company. Social interaction is the desired norm.

Do not isolate yourself from life's possibilities.

Try to accentuate your extroverted tendencies, and openness towards new ideas.

If you act friendly, people will think your friendly, and respond in kind.

'You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar'

If you have your health, both physically and mentally, than the rest of life is details.

America is a society of materialism and affluence.

Remember, however, great wealth and possessions do not ensure happiness.

Do not the endless quest for riches and prominence ruin your chances for present happiness.

Existential philosophies allow you to appreciate living in the moment, but do not prevent you from setting goals for the future.

Set high goals for yourself. Failing to try is the only way in which a person can become a failure.

Believe in Yourself. You are a good person and are capable of great things.